These new mysis shrimps are too pretty to eat

Three new and beautiful species of tiny shrimps are described from the southern-most tip of South Africa. One shares a special relationship with octopus, another with hermit crabs, and the third has bling for eyes.

Heteromysis octopodis sp. n.

Heteromysisoctopodis sp. n.

Of the three new mysid species, this one has the most unique habitat (and partnership). Scientists discovered. H. octopodis sharing the tidal pool dens of common octopus, Octopusvulgaris. This is the first scientists have documented mysis associating with a cephalopod.

Heteromysiscancelli sp. n.

This species was discovered living shells occupied by the hermit crab, Cancellusmacrothrix (hence its name). This is only the second mysid species known to associate with hermit crabs.

Heteromysisfosteri sp. n.

A striking mysid that grows to about 7mm (0.25") in length. It doesn't share homes with a novel partner, but it does have one outstanding feature: its golden cornea (eyes). There's no point resisting calling this the "golden eye mysis."